Cholera

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Prevention and control of cholera outbreaks: WHO policy and recommendations

Prevention

Measures for the prevention of cholera mostly consist of providing clean water and proper sanitation
to populations who do not yet have access to basic services. Health education and good food hygiene
are equally important. Communities should be reminded of basic hygienic behaviours, including the
necessity of systematic hand-washing with soap after defecation and before handling food or eating, as
well as safe preparation and conservation of food. Appropriate media, such as radio, television or
newspapers should be involved in disseminating health education messages. Community and religious
leaders should also be associated to social mobilization campaigns.

In addition, strengthening surveillance and early warning greatly helps in detecting the first cases and
put in place control measures. Conversely, routine treatment of a community with antibiotics, or mass
chemoprophylaxis, has no effect on the spread of cholera, can have adverse effects by increasing
antimicrobial resistance and provides a false sense of security.

Key messages

Provision of safe water, proper sanitation, and food safety are critical for preventing
occurrence of cholera.